Preparing your car properly before transport is one of the most important steps in ensuring a smooth and damage-free shipping experience. Whether you’re moving cross-country, purchasing a vehicle online, or sending a car to a buyer, following a clear preparation process protects you and helps the carrier load the vehicle quickly and safely.
Here is the complete, up-to-date car shipping preparation checklist.
1. Clean the Exterior for Accurate Inspection
A clean vehicle makes dents, scratches, and imperfections easier to identify. Carriers perform a pre-transport inspection before loading the vehicle and record its condition on a Bill of Lading. A clean car ensures accurate documentation and helps prevent disputes.
2. Remove Personal Items
Transport carriers cannot legally haul household goods inside vehicles. Remove:
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Bags
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Electronics
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Tools
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Clothing
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Valuables
Extra weight also increases transport cost and can violate carrier regulations.
3. Take Clear Photos Before Pickup
Photos provide a timestamped record of your vehicle’s condition. Capture:
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All sides
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Close-ups of existing damage
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Interior and dashboard
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Wheels and bumpers
These images protect you in case a damage claim is needed.
4. Reduce Fuel to About One-Quarter Tank
A quarter tank is ideal — enough for loading and unloading but not enough to add unnecessary weight. Lighter vehicles mean safer transport and fewer issues for the carrier.
5. Check Tires, Battery, and Fluids
Make sure:
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Battery is charged
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Tires are properly inflated
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No major leaks are present
Vehicles that won’t start or roll may require extra equipment and fees.
6. Disable Alarms and Toll Tags
Active alarms may trigger repeatedly during transport. toll tags should be removed or covered to prevent automatic charges when passing toll sensors.
7. Fold Mirrors and Note Modifications
Fold mirrors inward and notify the carrier if the vehicle has:
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Lowered suspension
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Roof racks
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Oversized tires
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Spoilers
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Running boards
Modifications can affect loading and clearance.
Final Thoughts
Proper preparation ensures faster loading, smoother communication, and a safer transport experience. Following this checklist helps protect your vehicle and gives both you and the carrier confidence throughout the shipping process.